Materials

Business Sector

Test Types

Standard

Specimen

In order to test 7-wire strand according to ASTM A370, A416, or ISO 156303, we decided to use an Industrial Series Model 600KPX. Since most wire strand applications require specimen lengths of 500 mm and greater, this frame was chosen primarily because of its convenient, large test space and long stroke actuator. This made it easy for the operator to install and remove specimens without a need for a ladder or pit mounting the machine.

We used a set of side-acting, hydraulic grips with wire strand inserts. The side-acting design helps eliminate problems associated with traditional wedge grips that include grip failures, time-consuming grip changes and inaccuracy of total elongation measurements. Clamping forces up to 900 kN (202,300 lbf) were available for positive gripping the wire strand specimen. The wire strand insert arrangement allows for quick changeovers between different specimen diameters. The semi-cylindrical inserts also helps reduce the chances for grip failures while effectively gripping all the wires in the stranded specimen.

In order to measure strain, we used an extra long, clip-on extensometer designed with a 24 inch (610mm) gauge length and 15 degree twist capability. The accurate strain measurements allowed the system to automatically perform required calculations, such as 1% yield strength and elongation at maximum load.

In addition, we relied on our Bluehill® Materials Testing Software to set up and run repeatable, accurate tests. The software auto-zeroes the strain measurement at the required preload values included in the test standards. Stress-Strain plots were clearly graphed and calculation results were indicated on the plots.

Industrial Series KPX Models are designed for high-capacity tension, compression, bend/flex, and shear testing. Featuring an ultra-large single test space and adjustable crosshead options, these frames deliver exceptional flexibility for a wide range of testing applications and are available in capacities ranging from 600 kN (135,000 lbf) to 3,500 kN (800,000 lbf).

Instron® hydraulic side-acting grips provide an innovative solution for high-capacity testing and deliver enhanced gripping performance, usability, and operator safety over traditional grip designs. These advanced grips maintain a constant clamping force on the specimen that acts perpendicular to the direction of testing and is independent of tensile loading.

Bluehill Universal Software is built from the ground-up for touch interaction and an intuitive user experience. Discover simpler and smarter testing with features such as pre-loaded test methods, QuickTest in seconds, enhanced data exporting: and Instron Connect – a new feature that provides a direct communication link to Service.
Users of previous versions of software such as Bluehill 2 and Bluehill 3 can easily upgrade to the newest version of Bluehill.

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